Coimbra expands locally sourced school meals to 22 schools for 2026/27

The Câmara de Coimbra announced plans to provide locally sourced school meals in 22 additional schools, covering nine parish councils and unions, starting in the 2026/27 academic year. The initiative, driven by the Avançar Coimbra coalition (PS/Livre/PAN) and led by council president Ana Abrunhoso, will be implemented through inter‑administrative contracts with the parishes, aiming for a gradual rollout that begins in September.

The council approved a €6 million‑per‑year contract to award catering services to a consortium that includes Nordigal and ICA. Opposition councilor Ana Cortez Vaz questioned which schools would be included, but details were not yet available. Contracts are expected to be finalised by the executive meeting on 24 August, followed by an extraordinary municipal assembly session to ensure the meals are ready for children starting school on 4 September. The Junta de Freguesia of Brasfemes already operates a local‑meal programme that will be incorporated into the expansion.